Description
A warm and inviting layered cake featuring fresh strawberries, fluffy cake, and whipped cream, perfect for autumn gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups (315 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp fine salt
- 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 3/4 cups (350 g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 lb (450 g) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for macerating strawberries)
- 3 cups (720 ml) heavy whipping cream, chilled
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for whipped cream)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for whipped cream)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 9-inch round cake pans or bake two layers and halve one later. Toss sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup sugar and let macerate for at least 20 minutes.
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
- Beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.
- With the mixer on low, add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with milk and sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry mix. Scrape the bowl and mix until just combined.
- Divide batter evenly between pans and bake 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Chill a bowl and whisk, then whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla to soft peaks.
- Place the first layer on a cake board, spread a layer of whipped cream, and spoon macerated strawberries (reserve juices). Repeat with the second layer. For the top layer, spread a thin crumb coat of whipped cream, chill 15 minutes, then finish frosting with a smooth layer and decorate with extra strawberries and a drizzle of reserved juices.
- Refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving so the layers meld and slice cleanly.
Notes
For a richer filling, consider mixing cream cheese with whipped cream. Make sure to use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American